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This past fall, Drs. James Spotila, Susan Kilham, and Walter Bien embarked on an exciting two week trip through China, making stops in Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, and Chengdu. Arranged by the Global Cause Foundation, the trip’s purpose was to create collaborations with Chinese scientists while opening discussions involving common interests in combating the effects of global warming. Amongst the numerous meetings, seminars, and discussions, the already established relationship in 2007 between Drexel and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding was strengthed.

A major chunk of time was spent here in Chengdu where Thomas Elzey, senior vice president and finance treasurer, was presented with a plaque in appreciation of Drexel’s $10,000 donation to the Giant Panda Breeding Base. Drexel’s donation came at a critical time, as these funds will not only be utilized for scientists and conservationalists who work to save the giant panda but also as earthquake relief for the Center.

The May 2008 earthquake that shocked much of China focused its destruction on the Sichuan region where the Giant Panda Research Base is located. Destroying visitor facilities in natural reserve areas, the earthquake killed some 69,000 people and greatly disrupted the bamboo supply for the pandas at the Center. "This donation will greatly help rebuild the infrastructure needed to maintain the giant pandas housed within the base as well as throughout nature." Says Dr. Spotila

While China’s Giant Panda is the principle species of interest, the research base also focuses their work on other endangered species such as the South China tiger, the red panda, and the golden monkey. This commitment to conservation is noticed world wide as it is internationally recognized as the “first endangered species conservation institution in China to have a conservation education department and dedicated full-time educators, providing regular conservation programming.” as reported by www.panda.org

The entire Drexel team made great contributions to developing ideas for future research. Dr. Kilham discussed the possible impacts of environmental toxins on Giant Pandas. Dr. Spotila took the lead on discussing problems of panda health, with great concern on their susceptability to viruses. Dr. Bien offered valuable advice about habitat restoration and fire ecology.

Apart from Drexel University’s monitary and scientific contributions, a very special donation was made, a donation of youthful Drexel spirit. Katelyn Walsh and Jonathan Carrelli, environmental science students at the Department of Biology spent their fall term living in Chengdu and helping with numerous projects revolving around saving China’s Giant Panda.

"Katelyn and Jonathan both stand as the pioneers of a great collaboration in science and conservation, one between the East and the West." says Dr. Spotila. Their three month experience in China will pave the way for future students to begin research and conservation efforts on the Giant Panda.

Jonathan explained his feelings towards this new start, “As students and faculty build relationships and become comfortable with their new surroundings, the possibilities for research and goodwill are endless.”

Both students being in a new environment found comfort in the familiarity of the research world and the hospitality of their Chinese hosts. Dr. Spotila hopes to create more opportunities for Drexel students to participate in research and conservation at the Giant Panda Breeding Base. In fact, this Spring/Summer will be the first time a full 6 month China based Drexel Co-op will be available. Dr. Spotila sees this as a great opportunity for student, researcher, and more importantly, China’s Giant Pandas.